Trump surrogate Corrin Rankin picked to lead blue state’s GOP: ‘Make California Great Again’

California Republicans, Energized by 2024 Gains, Elect New Leader Corrin Rankin

California Republicans are riding a wave of optimism following the 2024 general election, where the party made notable gains in a state long dominated by Democrats. At the California Republican Party (CAGOP) annual convention in Sacramento, delegates elected Corrin Rankin as the new party chair, marking a historic milestone. Rankin, a former surrogate for President Donald Trump and the first Black woman to hold the position, is determined to shake up the state’s political landscape. “It’s time to end the Democrats’ one-party rule and make California great again,” Rankin declared to delegates after her victory on Sunday. Her election signals a fresh direction for the party, which has been revitalized by Trump’s influence and is now setting its sights on challenging the state’s deep-blue political establishment.

A New Era for California Republicans

Rankin’s rise to leadership reflects the broader changes taking place within the California GOP. In an interview with Fox News Digital, she emphasized that Californians are yearning for “commonsense politicians” who can address the state’s pressing issues. The party’s renewed energy, largely fueled by Trump’s national agenda, is evident in its efforts to appeal to a broader base. Rankin, who has worked on Trump’s campaigns for over a decade, has a deep understanding of the former president’s political strategy and is committed to aligning the CAGOP closely with his priorities. “I’ve worked on every single one of his campaigns for the past 10 years, and I have a great relationship with the Trump administration,” she said. “We want to invite President Trump to California as many times as we can.”

The 2024 election provided a glimmer of hope for California Republicans, as Trump flipped several counties from blue to red. These counties, including Butte, Fresno, Imperial, Inyo, Lake, Merced, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Joaquin, and Stanislaus, had previously supported President Joe Biden in 2020. Rankin attributed this shift to voters’ growing support for Trump’s policies, which she believes transcend party lines. “A lot of people are favoring his policies,” she said. “They voted for President Trump, and that goes across the aisle.” This momentum has emboldened the CAGOP to pursue an ambitious agenda aimed at making California more politically competitive.

Challenges Ahead: Taking on California’s Blue Trifecta

Despite the optimism, the road ahead for California Republicans is steep. The state remains a Democratic stronghold, with a trifecta of Democratic control in the legislature, the governor’s office, and the U.S. Senate. Rankin is acutely aware of the challenges but remains undeterred. She pointed to an “underlying change” in California’s political climate, with voters moving away from the far left and toward the center. The election of Daniel Lurie as San Francisco’s new mayor, who is more moderate than his predecessor, London Breed, serves as an example of this shift. “California is moving from the far left and more towards the center,” Rankin said. “As California Republicans, it’s our job to make sure we are offering solutions and articulating our policies and vision.”

The economy and public safety are set to be two major focus areas for the CAGOP under Rankin’s leadership. California’s high taxes and rising crime rates have become flashpoints for voters, and Republican lawmakers have introduced bills aimed at addressing these issues. Rankin is confident that the party’s platform will resonate with Californians who are growing increasingly frustrated with the status quo. “We’re going to take that same approach to every single issue,” she said, referencing Proposition 36, a Republican-led initiative that passed overwhelmingly and targeted Governor Gavin Newsom’s soft-on-crime policies.

Looking Ahead to 2026: The Race for Governor

The 2026 gubernatorial election is already on the horizon, with Governor Gavin Newsom termed out of office. While the CAGOP has yet to endorse a candidate, Rankin emphasized that the party is prepared to support a strong contender once the field takes shape. “We’re going to make sure that our message is heard and that our message resonates with Californians,” she said. Rankin also addressed the tense relationship between Trump and Newsom, who recently signed a $50 million legislative package aimed at countering potential actions by the Trump administration. The CAGOP, she said, will play a key role in shaping the conversation between state and national politics, ensuring that the party’s voice is heard.

A New Chapter for California Republicans

Corrin Rankin’s election as CAGOP chair marks the beginning of a new chapter for California Republicans. With her deep ties to the Trump administration, her commitment to addressing the state’s most pressing issues, and her focus on building a more inclusive and solution-oriented party, Rankin is determined to challenge California’s Democratic dominance. While the road ahead is fraught with challenges, the party’s recent gains and renewed energy suggest that the Golden State may be on the cusp of a political shift. As Rankin leads the CAGOP into this new era, one thing is clear: California Republicans are ready to fight for a seat at the table and make their voices heard.